NHTSA Investigates Brake Defect In 250,000 Ford Pickups

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has started an investigation into potential brake failures in Ford Motor Co. pickup trucks. It’s estimated that more than 250,000 vehicles could be affected by the alleged defect. The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened its investigation after identifying 32 complaints alleging that failures in the electric vacuum assist pump caused a loss of brake power assist in 2011-2012 Ford F-150 trucks equipped with 3.5-liter gasoline turbocharged direct-injection V6 engines. The agency said:

Two reports alleged crashes due to increased brake pedal effort required to stop or slow the vehicle. The complaints show an apparent increasing trend, with approximately 60 percent of complaints received within the past nine months.

According to the ODI, a preliminary evaluation was opened “to assess the cause, scope and frequency of the alleged defect.” Based on early reports, it would appear that a significant safety defect may well be involved.